THE Malasakit Team of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go extended assistance to indigent residents in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, on Tuesday, November 26, as part of its ongoing efforts to uplift the lives of marginalized Filipinos.
Held at the Kapalong Town Square, Go’s team distributed essential items including snacks, vitamins, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to 500 residents. To further alleviate the hardships faced by select beneficiaries, they were also given shoes, mobile phones, and watches.
In partnership with Mayor Tess Timbol, the initiative provided financial aid from the government to help address the immediate needs of the poorest families in the area.
Through a video message, Go recognized the persistent struggles of impoverished Filipinos, especially in accessing basic needs like healthcare. As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography and a health reforms crusader, he emphasized the importance of Malasakit Centers in providing accessible and affordable healthcare.
These centers, institutionalized by Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, bring together key government agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). They aim to ease the financial burden of hospitalization, particularly for the most vulnerable.
“We are committed to improving not just access to healthcare but the overall welfare of the poor,” Go stressed.
“Through Malasakit Centers, we ensure that indigent patients get the help they need without worrying about costs.”
As of today, 166 Malasakit Centers operate across the country, with the Department of Health (DOH) reporting that more than 15 million Filipinos have already benefited from this initiative.
Beyond healthcare, Go’s continued outreach programs underline his broader commitment to addressing poverty. By providing immediate relief and linking constituents to sustainable government programs, he seeks to empower communities and pave the way for long-term development.
“Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo dahil naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Panginoon,” Go, known as Mr. Malasakit, reiterated.
